Blackdog villagers back new petition

Residents in a small Aberdeenshire village have signed a new petition seeking a hearing ahead of a Scottish Government decision on an electricity substation appeal.

Blackdog householders have opposed the scheme linked to Aberdeen Bay wind turbine development and proposed for a former landfill site in the small community.

The substation proposals were turned down by Formartine area councillors last year after hearing about the environmental concerns of local people.

But the team behind the European Offshore Wind Deployment Centre (EOWDC) appealed the decision earlier this year.

Now a petition bearing 112 signatures - nearly all local residents - has been tabled calling for a Government reporter to hold a hearing or inquiry before a decision on the appeal is reached.

Blackdog resident Edna Booth, who has spearheaded opposition to the substation proposals along with neighbour Nicola Brown, said: “We think it is important that we are heard by the reporter before a decision is made on the appeal.

“We are determined to remain vocal about this issue and are calling for a hearing or inquiry to be held.”

The vast majority of households objected to the substation plans, voicing concerns on several grounds, including health and road safety.

US businessman Donald Trump recently lost an appeal against the Scottish Government’s decision to give the 11-turbine development the go-ahead.

Following the court ruling - which he is challenging - the billionaire scrapped plans for further development at his Menie resort, focusing instead on a golf project in Ireland.

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